Overview

• The Programa de Sombras, under Barcelona's Pla Clima strategy, aims to adapt public spaces to rising temperatures with a mix of vegetation and shade structures.
• This summer, 70 new shaded spaces are being installed, prioritizing 52 playgrounds, 15 schoolyards, and three major public squares.
• The initiative combines tree planting with temporary and permanent shade structures in areas that cannot wait for natural canopy growth.
• A diagnostic study revealed that 62% of public spaces already have shade, while 19% require urgent action to address heat vulnerability.
• The city is considering extending the shade season beyond the current June-to-September window due to increasing extreme heat forecasts.